Cystitis is an infection of the bladder, which causes severe, burning pain on passing urine, blood in the urine, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting. The symptoms are universally recognised. It can wreck marriages, careers and wreck lives and is one of the most common and unpleasant female problems.

Cystitis is caused by a bacterial infection in the bladder. The perineum (the area around the genitals) has vast numbers of bacteria. Poor perineal hygeine and unwashed bottoms are responsible for most bladder infections. Dehydration, tight sweaty nylon underwear, strong shower gels can also predispose someone to cystitis.

Medical treatment with antibiotics can help but in the long term self help measures are more effective. Below are a set of guidelines developed by Angela Kilmartin who suffered with cystitis for much of her life, she has also written several books on cystitis.

1) Wash your perineum with bottled water before sex and pass urine afterwards.

2) Make sure your partner also showers and washes thoroughly before sex

3) Space out sex sessions to reduce any natural soreness

4) Avoid swimming in crowded swimming pools

5) Limit or stop alcohol, coffee and sugar drinks, drink plenty of fresh water instead

6) Drink at least 2 litres of water a day

7) Don't get dehydrated

8) Only use plain, unperfumed soap when washing in the shower

If despite these measures you still have an attack:

1)      Take a urine sample to your GP so that s/he can check for infection

2)      Drink half a pint of water every 20 minutes for the next three hours

3)      Take Cystopurin or a teaspoon of bicarb each hour to make the urine alkaline

4)      Take 2-3 strong painkillers

5)      Tuck a covered hot water bottle between the legs and one against your back

If you follow these guidelines, almost all episodes will come under control. If the attack continues despite the above measures then you may need antibiotics. If you continue to have episodes despite doing all of the above, then you need to see a doctor to see whether there are any further tests or examinations that are needed.  

Further information about cystitis can be found at   www.angela.kilmartin.dial.pipex.com  

Enter your question in the box below and give us your email address so that we can respond. If you require advice from a doctor or have multiple questions, you should consider taking a med4u consultation.